Joplin, MO- The Spartans tennis team suffered a heartbreaking loss to Lindenwood Belleville 5-4 on Friday, which ended their season. It was the first round of the conference tournament, in which the Spartans were the #5 seed taking on the #4 seeded Lynx.
The match got off to a great start for the Spartans, as they took 2 out of the 3 doubles matches. The #1 tandem of Conner Stevenson/Drew Morris fell behind 3-0, but won 8 of the last 10 games to win 8-5. Meanwhile, Sean Nanney/Tanner Morris, who were named to second team all conference for doubles, continued their impressive season and won at #2 doubles 8-6.
Singles would not be as friendly for the Spartans, as the Lynx would sweep the bottom four matches to seal the victory. Junior Drew Morris, who was named first team all conference and went 3-1 in conference singles play this year, took care of his opponent 6-2, 6-3.
Meanwhile, #2 Conner Stevenson was on serve at 4-3 in the 3rd set (after splitting the first two), before the match was decided and play was stopped.
The Spartans finished the season with an overall record of 5-9 and will look forward to returning their top 5 players next season. Coach Stevenson after the match said, "Really tough loss to swallow, obviously, but it felt good to finally be right there for a change. In years past, we have had some lopsided matches, but that match could have very easily swung our way…. I am proud of the guys and excited for next year".
